Location: Charlottesville, VA Company: Gropen Inc.
Pay Range: $23-$26 per hour - (Experience Level will determine rate of pay)
At Gropen, we build custom signage, branded environments, exhibits, and specialty projects that are designed to stand out. No two projects are exactly alike, and we’re looking for a Fabricator who enjoys both the craftsmanship and problem-solving that come with custom work.
This role is more than simply cutting parts and assembling pieces. We need someone who can look at a drawing and think through how it becomes a finished product in the real world. Someone who understands materials, build methods, fit and finish, and how fabrication decisions affect the final result. The right person has solid fabrication skills, strong shop instincts, and takes pride in building quality work. You should be comfortable figuring things out, adapting when needed, and working closely with a team to bring creative ideas to life.
What You’ll Do
Fabricate custom signage, displays, exhibits, and architectural elements using metal, wood, acrylic, composites, and other specialty materials
Interpret shop drawings, renderings, and production files and translate them into finished physical products
Think through fabrication methods, sequencing, structural integrity, and installation requirements during the build process
Weld, cut, grind, assemble, finish, and refine components with a high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail
Collaborate with designers and project teams to solve fabrication challenges and improve build efficiency
Identify potential production or installation issues before they become problems
Operate fabrication equipment safely and effectively, including saws, welders, CNC equipment, routers, and finishing tools
Help maintain quality standards across projects from concept through final assembly
Support installations and field adjustments as needed
Maintain a clean, safe, and organized workspace
What We’re Looking For
Experience in metal fabrication, custom fabrication, signage, scenic, exhibit, millwork, or related trades
Ability to read shop drawings and understand how concepts translate into physical builds
Strong spatial awareness and mechanical intuition
Creative problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt when plans evolve
Pride in craftsmanship and ownership of your work
Comfort working in a fast-paced, collaborative environment where projects vary constantly
Ability to balance efficiency with quality
Strong communication and teamwork skills
Dependable, self-motivated, and willing to learn
Bonus Points For
MIG/TIG welding experience
Experience in architectural signage or experiential fabrication
CNC operation or programming experience
Experience with custom one-off projects versus high-volume production
Understanding of installation methods and field conditions
Ability to contribute ideas that improve process, quality, or execution
The Perks
Full-time position
Competitive pay based on experience and capability
Paid holidays and PTO
Affordable health, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) eligibility after one year
Monday-Friday schedule
Why Gropen
At Gropen, we build things that people experience in the real world. Our work exists in hospitals, campuses, parks, commercial spaces, and public environments across the country. We’re a team of makers, problem solvers, designers, and builders who care deeply about quality and collaboration. We value curiosity, initiative, craftsmanship, and people who want to continue growing their skills. If you enjoy creative fabrication, solving unique challenges, and building work you can genuinely be proud of, you’ll fit in well here.